Official Mitsubishi R4 kit homologated and into production

MML Sports Ltd has confirmed that the official Mitsubishi kit of components to convert Group N Mitsubishi Lancer EvolutionX rally cars into the new international specification, R4, has now been homologated by the FIA. Following confirmation of its successful homologation, MML Sports, charged by Mitsubishi Motor Company and working in partnership with Ralliart Italy, will begin large scale production of the components to satisfy demand for the new breed of rally cars.

MML Sports has been working with Ralliart Italy for some time to develop and finalise the specification of the Mitsubishi R4 kit of components and is delighted that the FIA has accepted the components and agreed homologation.

Fundamentally, the R4 specification allows a range of lightweight parts to replace what are standard or road-going components on the Group N car. For example, a heated windscreen can be used, eliminating the need for a heater/blower to keep the front screen free from misting in damp conditions.

The rear windscreen and door windows can be replaced with Perspex while several of the car's original suspension components can also be replaced with fabricated items, reducing weight and allowing for better suspension geometry.

MML Sports is anticipating that, comparing like for like, an R4 version of the Lancer EvolutionX will weigh in the region of 60Kg less than a Group N version. The company also estimates that, based on previous experience and testing, this will equate to a performance advantage in the region of 0.5 seconds per kilometre, depending on the stage conditions and the surface.

Commenting, MML Sports Managing Director, John Easton, said; "I am delighted that the R4 components have been successfully homologated. This means that we can now begin large-scale production of the components and I anticipate full kits will be ready for shipping by mid/late April.

"We already have several customers who have pre-ordered kits and they are keen to reap the benefits that we expect from converting to R4 specification.

"With these schedules and the relatively fast conversion from GpN to R4, which we would expect to take no more than a couple of days, potentially teams could have R4 EvoXs ready for the third round of the FIA SWRC, Rally d'Italia or the third round of the IRC, in France."

MML Sports is also in the process of building its own R4 Mitsubishi Lancer EvolutionX which will debut soon, at the hands of a well-known driver, to demonstrate the car's potential. The company will also hold a formal launch of the R4 kit in the coming weeks.